Solar energy is a sustainable, environmentally friendly, cost-effective power source, but it still faces several misconceptions.

At the Otter, we've been installing solar panel solutions since 2009 and have heard them all! In this post, we aim to address common myths surrounding solar energy, including concerns about cost, reliability, and aesthetics. By debunking these misconceptions with facts, we hope to help readers make informed decisions about adopting solar energy in their lives.

Solar panels at sunset

Myth 1: "Solar energy is too expensive to install."

Fact: While solar energy systems were once associated with high upfront costs, the landscape in Ontario has changed significantly. Advances in technology, increased competition, and government incentives have made installing solar panels more affordable than ever. The cost of solar panels has decreased considerably over the years, making it an increasingly cost-effective solution for homeowners and businesses alike. At Otter Energy, we are experts at helping our customers find funding for their move to solar.

Myth 2: "Solar energy systems are unreliable and produce inconsistent power."

Fact: Modern Solar energy systems, like Otter Energy installs, are designed to generate electricity throughout the day, even on cloudy days. While solar panels produce less energy during overcast conditions, they can still generate significant power. Additionally, advancements in battery storage technology have made it possible to store excess energy for use during low sunlight periods, ensuring a steady and reliable power supply.

Modern Solar energy systems
New solar installation

Myth 3: "Solar panels are unattractive and will negatively impact the aesthetics of my property."

Fact: The perception that solar panels are unsightly is outdated. Today’s low-profile solar panels are sleek, modern, and designed to blend seamlessly with various architectural styles. Furthermore, solar panels can be installed in different configurations, such as integrated rooftop systems or ground-mounted setups, allowing for flexibility in design. Additionally, many homeowners find that the long-term benefits of solar energy outweigh any aesthetic concerns. The design team at Otter Energy has years of experience with every installation type and will ensure everything looks perfect and to your specification!

Myth 4: "Solar energy is only suitable for sunny regions."

Fact: Solar energy can be harnessed effectively no matter where you are – including those with less sunshine. Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity, not heat, meaning they can generate power even in colder climates. Moreover, solar panels can still produce electricity on cloudy days, albeit at a slightly reduced efficiency. With proper planning and sizing of the solar energy system, homeowners and businesses in all regions can benefit from solar power. At Otter Energy, we use sophisticated design tools to ensure the maximum performance of your solar panels!

solar energy careers
Featured solar projects

Myth 5: "Solar energy is not a practical solution for my energy needs."

Fact: Solar energy systems can be tailored to meet a wide range of energy needs. By assessing your energy consumption patterns and working with an experienced installer like Otter Energy, you can determine the appropriate system size and configuration to cover your energy demands effectively. Solar energy is scalable, allowing you to start with a smaller installation and expand over time to match your changing requirements.

Conclusion: Solar energy is a reliable, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing solution for powering homes and businesses. We hope to encourage readers to make informed decisions about adopting this sustainable power source by dispelling common misconceptions surrounding solar energy. The decreasing costs, technological advancements, and growing accessibility make solar energy an attractive option that contributes to a greener future while saving on electricity bills.

At Otter Energy, our motto is “Solar Made Simple” for a reason. Since 2009 we’ve helped hundreds of businesses and homeowners drastically reduce their energy costs, reduce their carbon footprint and increase the value of their property. While other companies have come and gone, Otter Energy is Canada’s only ISO 9001-certified solar installer. We have installed more than 300 000 solar panels and prides itself on attending expertly to every detail of solar panel installation.